"Tobacco Plants Are Grown in Soils with High-Phosphate Fertilizers That $\alpha$

question 61

Multiple Choice

"Tobacco plants are grown in soils with high-phosphate fertilizers that are naturally contaminated with the alpha-particle emitting radionuclide polonium-210.In one year,the average smoker will irradiate the bronchial epithelium with 8 to 9 rem,the equivalent dose of radiation from 250 to 300 chest X-ray films per year" (Pediatrics,September 1993,p.464) .How many sieverts is equivalent to 8.5 rem for $\alpha$ particle emission? (RBE for $\alpha$ particles = 20)

• A)43 Sv
• B)0.0043 Sv
• C)1.7 Sv
• D)850 Sv
• E)0.085 Sv

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Definitions:

Genetic Predispositions

Natural tendencies or susceptibilities influenced by genetic makeup that may increase the chance of developing particular traits or disorders.

Sandwich Generation

A generation of people who care for their aging parents while supporting their own children.

Middle Adulthood

A stage of life, typically considered to be from about 45 to 65 years of age, characterized by stability, sound relationships, and a sense of contributing to society.

Adolescence

The transitional stage of physical and psychological development that generally occurs during the period from puberty to legal adulthood.